Hill and George Take to Bloomington, Tailgate With Fans for G2 Zone

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by Scott Agness

September 16, 2012

BLOOMINGTON – We’re less than 50 days away from the Pacers’ home opener, and a number of players are doing their part to ensure a strong home court advantage.

Just over two weeks ago, Roy Hibbert made final cuts for Area 55 Season 3. Now, George Hill and Paul George are recruiting for the second season of their section at Bankers Life Fieldhouse, the G2 Zone.

Saturday, Hill and George were in Bloomington to tailgate with fans and recruit for their G2 Zone. In total, 72 season tickets will be given away.

See Photos from the Event: Gallery 1 »   Gallery 2 »

Joined by teammate Lance Stephenson, the trio first walked down Kirkwood and stopped by a few tailgates before heading to their own in Hoosier Village. Prior to the kickoff between Indiana and Ball State, excited Pacers fans—many wearing their blue and yellow—patiently lined up to take pictures, get autographs and talk with the two Georges. I can’t tell you how many fans shook the player’s hands, complimented them for their run last season and said they couldn’t wait to see what happens this year.

After signing autographs for almost 90 minutes, George Hill and Paul George decided to rest their hands and use their arms in a couple games of cornhole against Pacers fans. (Having not played the game in a while, they did need to be refreshed on how to keep score.)

The fans made it very clear they are very eager for the season to begin. One man I talked to was going on his ninth year as a season-ticket holder. Another fan had just taken his son to his first game last season and guaranteed they’d be back for plenty more this year. And many of the passionate fans that dropped by made their pitch to Hill and George as to why they should be selected for the G2 Zone (along with taking their picture with the four Pacemates on hand, of course).

The offseason is the player’s time. Thus, it’s particularly telling about this Pacers bunch that three players willingly gave up their own time to hang out and treat fans to a good time.

It was a spectacular night thanks to great weather, an impressive turnout and a clash of two Indiana football teams. Hill, George and Stephenson even made it down to the field to watch some of the ball game. And they left with a smile.

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